Young Toddlers (12-17 months)

During this time, young toddlers become increasingly
curious about their surroundings, and use their senses to explore the
environment. They begin to problem solve and use purposeful actions to
accomplish a task. The toddler classroom and materials are organized to support
the toddler's need to physically explore, discover, and be independent.
Toddlers are encouraged to participate in daily routines to develop self-help
skills and foster self-esteem. Planned educational ctivities provide repeated
opportunities with sensory experiences that help develop children’s gross and
fine motor skills. Caregivers help children identify and label their emotions,
people, and objects to promote thinking and communication skills. Stories,
pictures, and books are introduced and presented daily to help toddlers experience
reading as a pleasurable activity. Staff members reinforce positive behaviors,
set limits, and are consistently available to support the toddler's need for
independence and exploration.